Ask Chuck: Keep that natural look, even with a perm

I recently got a perm and wanted much more curl than I received. Is it ever possible to add more curl to the existing perm that is only two weeks old?

Certainly, as long as the previous perm was just a light body wave. However, I wouldn't have a tremendous amount of curl added, where it could become too extra tight. Perm rods are color coded, as to the amount of curl each gives.

For example, usually if the hairdresser uses white or black rods, you will only get a light body wave. If that happened and you desire more curl, just go back and tell him or her to go one color rod above, such as the gray rods, which will definitely add more curl and body.

This is a smart move because the hair is in a more porous state than before you began perming. It is also a wise choice because the hair may be color treated as well. This allows the hair to remain in good condition.

Other factors can come into play, such as the length of your hair. Keep a natural look, no matter the outcome. It does little good to get too tight of a perm and not like it for the first two months. Just approach these methods slowly, since haste does make waste. Your hairdresser will be amazed of your increased knowledge on the subject.

I have natural wavy hair and I feel like I need more body for a better change. Will natural wavy hair accept perms very well?

Yes. Many hairdressers try to discourage one from doing this, but it is a perfect way to get that new style. Men and women with natural wavy hair are quite limited to styles because the hair has a mind of its own ... right?

This is what we call customized perming for this type of hair. This way, it puts you in control of your hair instead of the hair controlling you. By perming natural wavy hair, you are changing the structure of the hairshaft and creating a more porous condition where the hair will accept styling and color treatments more effectively.

If you cut your long hair much shorter, you may be surprised at the natural wave you may have never known was there. This has actually happened several times in my career and became quite comical when people left telling others that I was so good at cutting straight hair into a much more wavy look. Man, was that hard to explain.

I would like just one time for my husband to come home and not look like he had a little boy's barber haircut. Don't men get their hair styled anymore?

This is an excellent observance and question. Believe it or not, men like to look individual also. Yes, they are becoming more aware of wanting a more personal look.

For example, take an older man with all gray hair. Wouldn't he look more handsome with some style to his hair rather than just buzzed off? Men who have made this change have quickly realized the color and texture of their hair have become increasingly attractive. Tell me they don't like compliments, at any age. Come on guys, don't you want to be envied too?

Charles Colson is a local hair stylist and registered massage therapist. You may email hair or massage questions to crcolsonrmt1@sbcglobal .net or call 361-575-5331.